Melting icebergs. Wildfires. Species extinction. What do they all have in common? It has been shown that climate change is one of the main culprits contributing to those previously mentioned situations. Believe it or not, seasonal allergies may also be getting worse because of climate change. Allergy seasons are now longer and more severe due to the warmer weather. Many places in our nation have already seen spikes in allergy cases due to the early entrance of higher temperatures.
There is no scientific evidence to suggest that people of any specific race or ethnicity are more susceptible to seasonal allergies. However, socioeconomic factors, access to healthcare, and environmental conditions can play a role in the prevalence and severity.
According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, more than 80 million people suffer with runny nose, itchy eyes, and other allergy symptoms. The severity of symptoms that people will experience depends on what they are allergic to and where they live. For instance, in Chicago, tree pollen was already at a “moderate” level in mid-February.
Seasonal allergies are typically caused by airborne allergens such as grasses, weeds, pollen from trees, and mold spores. However, it is possible to prevent seasonal allergies by doing the following:
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During peak pollen times, which is usually in the morning and evening, stay indoors.
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Keep windows closed and use air conditioning with a clean filter to reduce indoor allergens.
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Shower and change clothes after being outdoors to remove pollen from your skin and clothing.
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Use a saline nasal rinse to clear out allergens from your nasal passages
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Consider taking over-the-counter antihistamines or other allergy medications as directed by your primary care provider.
Performing these measures may help reduce your exposure to allergens and alleviate symptoms of seasonal allergies.
There is no scientific evidence to suggest that people of any specific race or ethnicity are more susceptible to seasonal allergies. However, socioeconomic factors, access to healthcare, and environmental conditions can play a role in the prevalence and severity of allergies in different populations. For example, living in dilapidated housing may increase exposure to mold which can cause allergy symptoms.
Seasonal allergies are caused by 3 main types of allergens. The main culprit in early spring is tree pollen. Grass pollinates after that followed by the weeds in late summer and early fall. Allergic reactions begin in your immune system. When a person who is allergic to pollen encounters it, the immune system may overreact by producing antibodies that attack the allergen. This causes itchy eyes, runny nose, sneezing, coughing or wheezing.
There is a significant monetary impact on individuals and society due to seasonal allergies. According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, allergies cost the U.S. healthcare system an estimated $18 billion dollars annually. This includes expenses related to doctor’s visits, medications, allergy testing, and emergency room visits for severe allergic reactions.
In addition to healthcare costs, seasonal allergies can also lead to indirect costs such as lost productivity at work or school due to symptoms such as fatigue or congestion. Allergies can also increase the risk of developing other health conditions like asthma or sinus infections. Some people need to use intermittent family medical leave to help protect their jobs due to their severe allergy symptoms.
For some, allergy season is occurring early this year. Get prepared by meeting with your provider and mapping out a prevention and treatment plan as soon as possible.
Denise Hooks-Anderson, MD, FAAFP, is a family physician. She can be contacted at yourhealthmatters@stlamerican.com